ATEN KVM over IP Matrix System
Implementation Guide
Optimizing Your Network for the KVM over IP Matrix System
KVM over IP Extenders with the CCKM KE Matrix Management Software
CONTENTS
1. Introduction
2. KVM over IP Matrix System Components
KVM over IP Extenders
KE Matrix Management Software
3. General Recommendations
4. Network Design
4.1 Planning Network Architecture
Build Strategies
Sample Network Diagrams
4.2 Network Setup Examples
One-to-One
One-to-Many
Many-to-Many (Matrix Mode)
Video Walls
4.3 Choosing a Network Switch
The Basics
Types of High Performance Switch
Switch Specifications
Recommended Capacities
4.4 Configuring the Network Switch
IGMP and Other Settings
5. Appendix
5.1 Recommended Network Switches
5.2 Example Switch Models and Capacity Calculations
5.3 Troubleshooting
5.4 PoE Considerations
1. Introduction
The ATEN KVM over IP Matrix System is a solution that combines KVM over IP Extenders with
the KE Matrix Management Software (CCKM) to extend, control and monitor access to
computers, across a network, in a multitude of ways. The purpose of this guide is to ensure that
installation project managers and site administrators are aware of ATEN’s best practice
guidelines for appropriate network structure and configuration for use with the KVM over IP
Matrix System. The key elements and recommendations for success, including our suggestions
for selecting a suitable network switch, will optimize your installation experience with our
products and reduce potential problems.
2. KVM over IP Matrix System Components
The KVM over IP Matrix System lets you set up a matrix of workstations that access computers
across a network, with the flexibility to control and configure each connection.
KVM over IP Extenders
The KVM over IP Extenders (Transmitters and Receivers) are installed at computers/workstations, and
are configured via the KE Matrix Management Software (CCKM) to create connections between them
over a LAN. This allows Extenders to bridge a connection between the workstation and the remote
computer they access across a network. Extender setups can be configured for one-to-one, one-tomany, many-to-one, and many-to-many workstation-to-computer connections.
KVM over IP Transmitters
The KVM over IP Transmitters facilitate the secured transmission of A/V data over the network by connecting to
source components (computers, set-top boxes, media players, etc.) and converting the source device input into
encrypted network packets for delivery over the LAN. Depending on the model, source input can be VGA, DVI,
DisplayPort or HDMI up to 4K.
KVM over IP Receivers
The KVM over IP Receivers are connected to display devices (monitors, TVs, projectors) and receive the IP
transmissions from the network. Receivers decrypt the data and then convert the signals back to their original
format so the A/V content can be displayed at its optimum resolution on the connected display.
KE Matrix Management Software
The KE Matrix Management Software (CCKM) allows you to define connections and manage, customize
and control KVM over IP Extender pairings in a matrix configuration with features such as auto-detection
of KVM over IP Extenders, username/password authentication, switching and sharing of connections,
scheduling, permissions and more. Whether you're extending computer access for monitoring,
broadcasting, editing or workstation setup, the KVM over IP Matrix System gives you the flexibility and
control to manage one or hundreds of extended connections.
3. General Recommendations
The following general recommendations for installing the KVM over IP Matrix System on a
network have been provided here for easy reference. For more details, please follow the
individual cross-references and refer to Part 4. Network Design.
Design a simple network layout
Please keep your network installation as simple as possible. A general rule of thumb is to adopt a flat structure – a
basic line cascade is recommended, not a pyramid or tree cascade. Please refer to 4.1 Planning Network
Architecture
Select suitable cable
It is recommended to use ATEN 2L-2910 Shielded Digital Video Extension Cable to support long distances while
safeguarding transmission quality.
Keep distances between switches as short as possible
The distances between the switches should be as short as possible; distances between KVM over IP Extenders
should be no more than 100 m (330 ft.)
Ensure that the bandwidth is sufficient
In order to prevent bottlenecks, make sure that there is enough bandwidth between switches. Please see 4.3
Choosing a Network Switch
Choose a high-performance network switch
Please note that a high-performance network switch is essential for long-term, stable KVM over IP Matrix System
operation, and it is strongly suggested that you deploy one of the recommended models. Please refer to 4.3
Choosing a Network Switch and 6.2 Recommended Network Switches and Example Models
Try to avoid adapters
To prevent possible noise throughout the installation, avoid using adapters (such as VGA-to-DVI, HDMI-to-DVI). If
this cannot be avoided, be sure to use a high quality model (such as ATEN 2A-127G or 2A-128G)
Ensure Firmware is current
Make sure that all the switches and extenders in the installation are up-to-date with the latest firmware.
4. Network Design
4.1. Planning Network Architecture
Build Strategies
For optimum performance, the KVM over IP Extenders require high amounts of data to be transferred
across a network; therefore we recommend the following strategies to setup the KVM over IP Extenders.
Using our suggestions will provide better performance and the highest video resolutions possible. Use
each of the keys to ensure the best transmission of data and the highest throughput possible. Prior to
setup we recommended laying out the plans for your KVM over IP Extender installation using the
following performance guide
Build a Network Diagram
To build an effective KVM over IP Extender installation, start by mapping out the layout. Create a diagram with
the KVM over IP Extenders, computers and routers along with how they will be connected across the network. It
also helps to write out how the devices will interact. Use the diagrams below as the framework as you decide what
devices to purchase and how to build the network effectively for the best data throughput.
Considerations:
If possible, create a private network for the KVM over IP Extenders
Use the same switch model throughout
Use a flat cascaded layout
Avoid a tree or pyramid structure
Install network switches near each other
Minimize the distance of connections
Install KE Matrix Management Software (CCKM) computer and KVM over IP Extenders on the same
subnet
Check the 5 following factors before installation:
Choose the Right Cable:
Always use Cat 5/6e Ethernet cable or higher installed by a professional between any two devices you are
installing. We recommend using ATEN Brand Ethernet cable to ensure the quality. It’s best when installing KVM
over IP Extenders to use brand new Ethernet cabling for each part of the installation to ensure the reliability of the
data being transmitted. This is a key to getting the best uninterrupted video resolution cross the network.
Determine the Distance:
Distance is an important factor when setting up networks, with a shorter distance and fewer hops through routers,
data can be transmitted more efficiently. So whenever possible decrease the distance and direct network traffic
effectively between subnets that communicate with each other to increase the data throughput.
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